If you’re on the hunt for a festive, crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings together sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors all in one bite, look no further than this delightful Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe. It’s a creamy, crunchy, and colorful treat that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special—perfect for holiday gatherings, casual get-togethers, or just impressing friends with your snack game. The blend of tangy dried cranberries and crunchy pecans wrapped around smooth cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese promises a flavor party that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a unique role—from the creamy base to the crunchy coating, every element adds a layer of flavor and texture that makes this cheese log irresistible.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Acts as the smooth, creamy foundation binding all the flavors together.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, tangy bite to balance the creaminess and sweetness.
- Pecans (1 cup, chopped): Provides a satisfying crunch and nutty richness to the log and the coating.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup, chopped): Offers a sweet-tart pop that brightens the entire dish visually and taste-wise.
- Fresh chives (1/4 cup, chopped): Brings a subtle oniony freshness that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- Cling film, mixing bowls, spatula, sharp knife, chopping board, cheese grater: Essential tools to shape and prepare the cheese log with ease.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Nut and Fruit Medley
Start by combining your chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh chives in a small bowl. This mixture is the star of your coating as well as a key flavor component that adds both texture and bursts of sweetness and herbal notes.
Step 2: Blend the Cheeses
In a larger mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese and grated cheddar cheese together until you get a smooth, creamy blend. Once combined, fold in half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture. This step infuses that wonderful crunchy and tart mix right inside the cheese log.
Step 3: Shape and Chill the Cheese Log
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of cling film. Using your hands or the spatula, shape it tightly into a log. This form makes it easy to slice and serve later. Wrap the log securely in the cling film and pop it into the refrigerator for at least an hour. The chill helps the flavors meld and firms up the log so it holds its shape beautifully.
Step 4: Coat the Log with the Remaining Nutty-Fruity Mix
After the log is chilled, spread the remaining pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture on a clean chopping board. Carefully unwrap the cheese log and roll or press it into the mixture until it’s evenly coated on all sides. This final coating adds an irresistible crunch and a festive look that’s sure to draw admiring glances.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice the cheese log into bite-sized rounds or thicker wedges, depending on your preference. These slices are best enjoyed with a selection of crackers or sliced baguette for a wonderfully balanced appetizer.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your cranberry pecan cheese log by garnishing with a few sprigs of fresh chives or even some extra chopped pecans and cranberries sprinkled on top. This not only adds extra flavor but makes the presentation pop with color and texture.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crisp crackers, crusty bread, or an assortment of fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. The mix of crunchy veggies and creamy cheese is an unbeatable combination that guests will love.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, transform the cheese log into individual cheese balls or shape smaller logs for elegant party platters. For a holiday twist, you can even wrap slices in prosciutto or serve with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cranberry pecan cheese log tightly wrapped in cling film or an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 5 days, making it perfect for enjoying over the course of several days or serving guests over a weekend.
Freezing
This cheese log freezes well—wrap it tightly in cling film and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. For the best texture and flavor, freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a cold cheese appetizer, reheating is not typically recommended. Instead, just bring the cheese log to room temperature before serving to maximize creaminess and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would be great alternatives if you want to switch things up or accommodate allergies, though they will slightly change the flavor profile.
How far in advance can I make the cranberry pecan cheese log?
You can prepare it up to 48 hours ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve, which helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, it’s perfect for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal-derived rennet cheeses, but if you want to be sure, check that your cheeses are labeled vegetarian-friendly.
What are the best crackers to serve with this cheese log?
Choose sturdy crackers like water crackers, multigrain, or rye to complement the creamy and crunchy textures without falling apart.
Can I add other dried fruits besides cranberries?
Of course! Dried cherries, apricots, or even finely chopped dried figs could add interesting flavors and textures, just adjust quantities to keep the balance right.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe is a true winner that takes minimal effort but makes a big impression. Its gorgeous look, balanced flavors, and appealing textures make it an appetizer worth making time and again. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cheese log brings joy to the table with every slice. Give it a try—you won’t regret adding this festive favorite to your culinary repertoire!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Cheese Log is a delightful and festive appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar are combined with crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh chives to create a flavorful cheese log wrapped and chilled to perfection. It’s easy to prepare, no cooking required, and offers a delicious blend of tangy, nutty, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
Other
- Small mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Cling film
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Cheese grater
Instructions
- Prepare Pecan Mixture: In a small mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh chives. Set this mixture aside to use both inside and outside the cheese log.
- Mix Cheeses and Part of Pecan Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the softened cream cheese and grated cheddar cheese until evenly blended. Stir in half of the pecan, cranberry, and chive mixture to incorporate flavor and texture into the cheese base.
- Shape and Chill Cheese Log: Transfer the cheese mixture onto a piece of cling film. Using your hands or a spatula, mold the mixture into a log shape. Wrap it tightly in the cling film and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour, allowing it to firm up.
- Coat Cheese Log: Once chilled and firm, unwrap the cheese log. Spread the remaining pecan mixture evenly on a chopping board. Roll and press the cheese log onto this mixture to coat it evenly with the pecans, cranberries, and chives for added texture and presentation.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the cheese log into serving pieces. Serve immediately with your choice of crackers for a delicious appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other hard cheeses like gouda or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Chill the cheese log longer if you want firmer slices that hold shape better.
- This cheese log pairs excellently with assorted crackers, sliced baguette, or crisp vegetables.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for freshness.
